How to apply for Tennessee Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veteran Homeowners

Who it's for

Tennessee pays back property taxes for veterans with a total and permanent service-connected disability — and there is NO income limit on this version of the program. The state reimburses the tax paid on up to $175,000 of the home's market value, which in most Tennessee counties covers most or all of the bill. Qualifying conditions include a 100% permanent and total service-connected rating, paraplegia or permanent paralysis of both legs and the lower body, loss or loss of use of two or more limbs, legal blindness, or a 100% rating from time as a prisoner of war. The home must be owned and used as the primary residence. Apply through the county trustee's office after the tax bill arrives, and re-apply each year.

What you'll need

• VA award letter showing the total and permanent service-connected disability (the trustee sends a consent form to the VA to verify)
• Property tax bill or receipt
• Proof the home is the primary residence
• Completed tax relief application from the county trustee's office

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about Tennessee Property Tax Relief for Disabled Veteran Homeowners. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need va award letter showing the total and permanent service-connected disability (the trustee sends a consent form to the va to verify), property tax bill or receipt, proof the home is the primary residence — is anything else required? What is the best next step?”

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual — re-apply through the county trustee each tax year